8 Best VPNs for Small Businesses [Updated 2023]

Are you looking for the best VPN for small business?

Using a business VPN not only helps in taking necessary action against cyber threats but it acts as a step to success. With that said, larger organizations can foot the bill where resources and software are concerned, which a smaller business fails to incorporate.

Many organizations actively own Virtual Private Networks, securing their devices and information, but the best VPN isn’t something a small business can afford.

We’ve tested and highlighted our top picks for the best VPN that offers enterprise-scale extensions that are affordable and reliable for smaller businesses to invest. So, regardless of whether you’re working remotely, or within the office, these providers are suitable for all.

Before carrying on with why a VPN is essential for smaller businesses and how we chose the best ones, here’s a look at the top VPNs for businesses:

Quick Overview: 8 Best Small Business VPNs

If you are short on time, here are the 8 best VPNs for small businesses that encompass business security solutions.

1. Perimeter 81: The best business VPN with cloud-based software with network security beyond traditional VPNs that you can deploy within a single day.
2. NordVPN Teams: NordVPN Teams of NordLayer is the enterprise version with tons of servers, and double data encryption for businesses.
3. ExpressVPN: Ideal for small businesses with ultra-security and ease of use.
4. Surfshark: Affordable VPN for businesses, making an excellent choice for sole traders on a tight budget.
5. IPVanish: A solid small business VPN solution for sole traders who use multiple devices.
6. CyberGhost: A well-priced VPN for businesses with dedicated IP addresses and secure servers without any third-party inclusion.
7. StrongVPN: Fast VPN for individuals, and entrepreneurs who want maximum performance.
8. Twingate: Great VPN for small business with lots of advanced features to secure your business data.

Best VPNs for Small Business & Startup

1. Perimeter 81 – A Cloud based business VPN with great network security

First on the list for top VPN, best for small businesses, we have Perimeter 81. In fact this provider is known as the best business VPN in general for remote workers as well as large corporate sectors.

Perimeter 81 is based in Israel, specialized for transforming the future of security at a workplace. This VPN delivers high speeds, has a competent 24/7 chat support, and offers unlimited data.

Let’s first talk about the pricing. Perimeter 81 breaks into two options, providing choices between a monthly and an annual plan. The prices are as follows:

• $16/mo. per user (monthly)
• $8/mo. per user (annually) (Saves 20%)

The prices seem a little reasonable considering there’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee. These plans, however, are only applicable to a minimum of 5-10 team members. There’s also a custom plan available for larger teams at a minimum of 50 users.

Perimeter 81 is a cloud-based business service, allowing its users to host their own gateway using Static IP, in 35 locations. Each user is allowed to create more than one server on the same location. Business owners wouldn’t have to worry about privacy. Its network security ensures complete encryption routed through private servers.

Where security is concerned, Perimeter uses AES 256-Cipher with RSA-2048 TLS handshake encryption and SHA-256 authentication, on OpenVPN protocol with SHA256 hash authentication. We understand that it sounds too technical, but we assure you this means maximum protection.

Other in-app protocols include IKEv2 and WireGuard. Perimeter 81 also uses Perfect Forward Secrecy for added security.

Security is one of the main focuses of Perimeter 81, covering a Kill Switch feature, Wi-Fi security, Two-factor authentication, an in-app speed test tool, software-defined perimeter that allows you scalable system control and Zero-Trust Access.

This provider’s app is not only user-friendly, but compatible with all the major devices used within and outside the office, connecting every in-house and travelling employee under one cloud. It supports Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux and Chromebook.

The only aspect we don’t fully agree with is the Perimeter 81 privacy policy. They mention on their website that information like account creation details, user’s time and information stored during, before and after website visits.

They also collect actions run by the admin and members. However, information as such is usually collected from business VPN services.

2. NordVPN Teams – Offers double data encryption for businesses

NordVPN Teams is one of the strongest and top VPN providers in the market. Besides offering reliable plans for basic VPN users, it also offers cloud VPN services for business consumers. It’s one of the most reliable for remote workers, large offices and basic use.

This provider is located in Panama, a region far away from prying eyes. NordVPN focuses on abiding by its strict no-logs policy that also went through several independent audits. Business owners never have to worry about sensitive data or privacy being compromised.

The annual packages for the Business team VPN ranges from:

• $7.00/mo. per user for Basic
• $9.00/mo. per user for Advanced

They follow a centralized billing system for teams, which is great, meaning you won’t have to fumble over new payments every time a new employee is added. However, the price varies according to the number of members, ranging from a minimum of 5 users and onwards.

It has around 5200+ servers in 59+ countries, and allows you to choose from 20+ dedicated server locations from anywhere in the world.

Using its obfuscated servers, business members will be able to access regional and international accounts, content, websites and more from wherever they may be, including China.

Business owners also have the freedom to create their own gateways, assigning dedicated servers to specific groups or team members, managing access to them.

Where security is concerned, NordVPN operates using AES 256-bit encryption, supporting all the major protocols that include OpenVPN, IKEv2, IPsec, and a beta version of WireGuard. Other advanced features include a Kill Switch, Two-factor authentication (accessed using Google authenticator, Authy, phone-based authentication), and third-party login where you can sign in to your Teams account using Azure AD, GSuite, Okta, and OneLogin.

Coming to the user-friendly platform and device support, NordVPN for teams allows scalable and dedicated account management. You’ll be able to add users, include dedicated servers, and create gateways. There’s also access to control system permissions and allowance to create multiple user accounts. NordVPN is compatible with Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and routers.

There’s no free trial but NordVPN does allow a 30-day refund.

3. ExpressVPN – Ideal for small businesses with ultra-security

Servers — 3000+ servers in 94+ countries

Simultaneous connections — 5 connections

Static IP — No

Available On — Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS, Routers

Money-back guarantee — 30-day money-back guarantee

Price — $6.67/month + 3 Months Free

Visit ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the best VPN service for small business and sole traders. It does not offer a specific business/ enterprise plan, but with great server coverage, military-grade encryption, and excellent speed, it had to make it to our list of VPNs.

Thanks to its intuitive apps, ExpressVPN works on all major platforms such as iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebooks, and more devices – all with easy configuration.

With ExpressVPN, you also get top-grade security with 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, HMAC, and Diffie Hellman key exchange.

256-bit AES encryption protects your data against brute-force attacks, while HMAC (Hash-Message Authentication Code) protects your data from being altered.

ExpressVPN also covers all basis with split tunneling, IP/ DNS leak protection, and a trustworthy no-logging policy. Privacy protection is further favored because of its safe jurisdiction in the British Virgin Islands – a place that has no mandatory data retention laws for ISPs and VPN companies.

A slight con is that ExpressVPN is slightly more expensive than its competitors, but the price is justified by the quality of the service you are getting. There are three plans available:

• 12-month plan for $6.67/mo
• 6-month plan for $9.99/mo
• 1-month plan for $12.95/mo

One ExpressVPN account allows up to 5 simultaneous connections, and there is a 30-day money-back guarantee available as well, so you can give it a try risk-free. Overall, ExpressVPN is a great VPN solution for small business and entrepreneurs.

4. Surfshark – Affordable VPN for businesses or startups

Next, we have Surfshark. This VPN provider doesn’t offer a stand-alone business VPN for teams, but it does make a great option considering it allows unlimited device connections. So,  whether you work remotely, or own a startup or even require VPN services for an entire company, Surfshark is a great option.

This is the perfect deal for small business owners who can’t manage to pay a hefty price according to the number of employees on the network.

It costs around:

• $2.05/mo. for 2-year
• $3.99/mo. for 12-month
• $12.95 per month.

Surfshark is located in the British Virgin Islands. This location is known for observing strict no-logging policies. And just to be safe, we scanned through its terms of service and privacy policy to make sure there weren’t any loopholes.

Just because Surfshark doesn’t offer any standalone features or VPN services for business users, it doesn’t mean it lacks in performance for it. This affordable VPN is compatible with all the major operating systems and apps for multiple devices. A few of it include Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Chromebook, routers, browser extensions and gaming consoles Surfshark is one of the best VPNs for Xbox as well, just in case you run a business for virtual gaming apps, etc.

The best part is you and your team will be able to connect to the VPN using unlimited devices altogether as it is one of the best VPNs for multiple devices. Doesn’t matter where you are, all you have to do is sign in to the shared account.

It offers a simple but effective list of 3200+ servers in 65 countries, allowing you to bypass through geo-blocked websites from anywhere in the world, including China.

All your devices will be secure with AES 256-bit encryption with OpenVPN, IKEv2 and Shadowsocks protocols. There’s also a Kill Switch even on the iOS apps. Other advanced features include Whitelister, Multi-hop servers, CleanWeb, DNS protection and more.

Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial only for Android and iOS smartphone users and a 30-day money-back guarantee. To know more about this VPN, check out our full review of Surfshark.

5. IPVanish – A solid small business VPN solution for sole traders

IPVanish is a US-based VPN service that is indeed catered towards consumers from all walks of life.

Although, if you’re looking for the IPVanish services, it, just like Surfshark, now offers unlimited device connections. You’ll be able to connect as many employees as you desire, using one VPN subscription, simultaneously on multiple supported devices.

However, IPVanish is a little on the pricier side, but still more affordable than the Encrypt.me (sister company) price for two team members per month. This shouldn’t be an issue since it’s more of a business investment, protecting multiple users over one network. Here’s what it costs:

• $10.99 for the 1-month plan
• $5.32/mo. for the 3-month plan
• $3.99/mo. for the 1-year plan

Since IPVanish is one of the best VPN services for small business groups, the most convenient package would be the one year plan.

It’s mentioned that IPVanish is located in the US, and it does fall under the 14-eyes jurisdiction. However, the no-logging policy seems to be solid, and that’s what matters. Still on the topic of location, this service offers 2000+ servers in 75+ locations, with most of its coverage in the US.

This means if ever you live within a country like China, which by the way, IPVanish does function in, you’ll be able to connect to US servers for foreign business affairs.

Diving into the IPVanish security, it’s built with AES 256-bit encryption, offers OpenVPN protocol for Windows, macOS, Android and Firestick, and IKEv2 for iOS. There are other protocols added as well, with one of them being the SOCKS5 proxy.

Other features include a Kill Switch, and the Scramble OpenVPN, which go hand-in-hand, if ever there were external sources trying to detect VPN usage.

Supported devices include Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Chromebook, Routers, router firmware, and more.

Business owners will also be able to test IPVanish since it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re thinking to get this VPN so you can check our detailed review of IPVanish.

6. CyberGhost – A well-priced VPN for businesses with dedicated IP addresses

Another consumer-level VPN that’s best for small businesses, is CyberGhost. This VPN provider is known in the industry for its features maintaining user-privacy online. It is a Romanian VPN, far away from data-retention and mass surveillance regions. It doesn’t log user data, which you can read about in its privacy policy.

This VPN service has huge coverage of 7700+ servers in 90+ countries. However, it doesn’t work in China.

CyberGhost breaks into three plans. However, for business users and small teams, the 18-month plan seems the most convenient. Here’s what it costs:

• $12.99/mo. for the 1-month plan
• $4.29/mo. for 1-year plan
• $2.29/mo. for 3-year plan

CyberGhost is a great choice for extremely small businesses, say a team of 5-7. This is mostly because it allows simultaneous multiple connections up to 7 devices per subscription. However, it is compatible with routers that support OpenVPN, IPSec, and L2TP connections. This means you’ll be able to connect more than 7 devices through the VPN for your router.

Other than that, CyberGhost is compatible with all the major operating systems and apps for Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, browser extensions, and more.

Coming to the CyberGhost security, it utilizes AES 256-bit with 4096-bit RSA key and SHA256 authentication. It also offers OpenVPN protocol even on the iOS app. Other protocols include IKEv2 and L2TP. WireGuard is only available for Linux.

You’ll also find Split-Tunneling, a Kill Switch, even on the iOS app, and other in-built features like an ad and malware blocker, Automated HTTPS Redirect, and Data Compression.

Just in case you’re looking for a test run, you’re in luck. There’s a 24-hour trial for Windows, a 7-day trial for Android and iOS smartphones, and a 45-day money-back guarantee. Check out the review of CyberGhost if you want to buy this VPN.

7. StrongVPN – Fast VPN for individuals and entrepreneurs

Last but not least, we have StrongVPN. This VPN provider is located in the US and has a very vague logging policy. It is part of an internet solutions company called NetProtect, which harbors multiple VPN providers under one wing, including Encrypt.me.

StrongVPN on its own is great for extremely simple usage. Where a VPN for business or teams are concerned, the support chat recommended going for Encrypt.me. It’s ranked number 2 on this list, so you can catch all the details above.

As for StrongVPN, if your business requires a low-budget, and simple VPN for a tiny team, then you should go for it. It’s priced at:

• $10.99/mo. for 1-month
• $3.66/mo. for 1-year

You’ll be allowed simultaneous connections up to 12 devices per subscription. StrongVPN supports a huge platform of devices, some of which include Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, Routers, Chrome OS and more.

The security features are very limited. It operates using AES 256-bit encryption, has a Kill Switch, and supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, SSTP, L2TP and IPsec on almost all apps. Split-Tunneling is available only on Android.

You’ll find around 950+ servers in 30+ countries on the app, and functionality in China as well. However, for that you need to enable the Scramble feature using OpenVPN connection.

StrongVPN doesn’t offer a free trial but maintains a reliable 30-day refund policy. You can check the review of StrongVPN before getting this VPN.

8. Twingate – Great small business VPN with lots of advanced features

Servers — N/A

Simultaneous connections — 5 connections

Static IP — Yes

Available On — Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS

Money-back guarantee — 14-day free trial

Price — $10 user/month

Visit Twingate

Twingate is not technically a VPN but is a zero-trust network that aims to secure business data, limiting availability to those who need it. It’s a new option for businesses that want to control remote teams.

Twingate is a cloud-based VPN solution with zero-trust access control that makes gateways invisible on the internet. The best part about Twingate is that businesses can deploy it without having to change the network infrastructure and it is scalable as well.

If we talk about features, Twingate supports single sign-on (SSO) so your employees only have access to the resources that you have provided them. This includes on-cloud apps, remote networks, etc.

There is a split tunneling feature available as well that allows traffic to pass through the network while bandwidth-intensive tasks like video conferences go via a direct connection.

As for pricing, Twingate offers two plans:

• Teams – Up to 50 users, and 5 remote networks for $5 per user/month. 
• Business – Up to 150 users and 10 remote networks for $10 per user/ month. 

All plans have a 14-day free trial in case you want to try it first. For large businesses and corporations, there is an option for a Custom plan as well where you can discuss your terms and requirements.

Twingate allows direct access to resources on any device without any impact on latency or user performance. Its Smart Routing network engine combines technologies like NAT traversal, private proxies, QUIC, and split tunneling to give you a secure connection.

NAT traversal creates a P2P connection between clients and resources so there is minimum latency. While QUIC is used for reliable delivery of multiple data streams by multiplexing them over a single connection.

Twingate allows you to map your network with no changes in the infrastructure. Overall, it is a great small business VPN with plenty of advanced features.

Why VPN is Essential for Small Businesses?

A VPN in general, is a major part of the cybersecurity world, and when you’re handling a business or part of one, security measures need to be a primary focus. If you’re wondering why would anyone want to target a startup, then think again!

In this day and age, there is no certain target. Cybercriminals are out to get anyone, whether there’s a motive or not. Smaller businesses are more susceptible to cyberattacks, with the many vulnerabilities lying around.  For instance, connecting to public WiFi sources while handling office files or installing free software can cause a thousand different issues.

A VPN can help any business owner to thrive. It’s an important tool alongside other security measures, but not every startup is able to invest.

For this, we’ve chosen 8 VPN providers that offer immaculate security protection, special office-grade VPN extensions, and more, all while being affordable choices. But, of course, there’s a method to everything, and if you read ahead, you’ll find out how we chose them.

How Do You Choose a VPN for Your Business?

A VPN for a business, small or large, and one for normal everyday use isn’t very different, apart from security risks.

For instance, setting up a VPN for your business remotely, and having others connected to the same network, exposing confidential data.

However, to choose one for your business, there are a few differences. A VPN for a small business is mainly chosen to create secure access over vulnerable or compromisable Wifi networks.

It needs to be equipped with military-grade encryption, and harbour the most secure tunneling protocols for maintaining privacy. Some include OpenVPN, PPTP, IKEv2, and L2TP. However, for smaller businesses, PPTP is the most recommended, since it’s easier to set up, but IPSEC, on the other hand, comes with stronger security but longer setup process.

When you choose a VPN for your small business, it should be able to allow you access to it from anywhere in the world, and secure enough to access it over any internet connection. Device support is a huge requirement too.

A VPN for your business means support on multiple operating systems and various required devices in one go. It should at least support Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, Routers, and browser extensions.

Then there are choices between hardware and software VPN services, where small startup companies are concerned. A software VPN trumps over a hardware service any day, even though a hardware VPN comes with better security.

A software VPN is more affordable, especially if your business is small or a startup. Plus it’s scalable. You wouldn’t require an expert making trips to each and every employee or remote worker for installations and quick fixes, the way it’s done on a hardware VPN.

You’ll lastly need to look into the risk factor of logging into the VPN network via remote routers. The provider you go with needs to include every ounce of security to ensure an encrypted and uncompromised tunnel.

Best VPN for Small Businesses & Startups – How we chose them

Not every VPN available offers special features like bank-grade encryption or affordable packages, suitable enough for small teams. We selected the best VPN services that are reliable, tested them, and shortlisted only 6 of the best according to a rating criterion.

Here’s how:

1. Business-oriented features

One of the most important things to consider while choosing a business VPN is to look for features that are important for a business such as dedicated IPs, kill switch, dedicated servers, and more.

2. Cloud VPN

It is best to use a cloud-based VPN solution due to increased security and user management. It allows for easy scalability, and management offsite.

3. Security features and privacy policies

They were also picked based on offering bank-grade security encryption and a choice of protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. We also looked for other advanced features like a Kill Switch, Ad-Blocker, Split-Tunneling, and DNS protection.

4. Affordable packages and business accounts

The VPN providers chosen were picked based on affordable prices and packages that an entire business team can enjoy.

5. Compatibility with multiple devices

To secure every device used for business, the VPN services chosen are compatible with multiple operating systems and devices. Some of these include support on Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, routers, extensions, and more.

6. Server coverage and unblocking abilities

We looked for smart server coverage in locations like the US, UK, AUS, and the ability to function in restricted locations like China. Unblocking abilities are also necessary, in case you need to access email or bank accounts while traveling to geo-restricted regions for business.

7. User-friendly apps

VPN apps need to be secure and user-friendly. This is to make sure every employee is able to navigate through the VPN app successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which VPN is suitable for your business?
2. What is the best VPN router for small businesses?
3. How do I set up a VPN for my business?
4. Should I use a free business VPN?
5. Are VPNs safe for business?

Which VPN is suitable for your business?

Perimeter 81 is one of the best business VPNs when it comes to features and infrastructure. It has over 700+ servers in 40+ different countries, making it easy to find a server that is best for your needs. On the other hand, for small business owners, and sole traders, Surfshark is a great choice due to its affordability factor.

What is the best VPN router for small businesses?

The best VPN routers that you can look into for a startup business needs to support numerous factors like easy configuration, affordability and solid features. They are:

• Asus RT-AC86U router
• Asus RT-AC5300 router
• D-link DIR-885L/R router
• Cisco RV325
• DrayTek Vigor2925
• UTT Technologies HiPER 518
• Linksys WRT 3200 ACM router
• Netgear Nighthawk X4S VDSL/ADSL Modem Router D7800

How do I set up a VPN for my business?

Setting up a VPN for your business is a lot simpler than you think. Here’s how:

• First, make sure your router supports a VPN, wireless and wired connections, and up to a minimum of 10 devices.
• Use a Quick-Start Wizard to set up your router and connect it to the internet.
• Make sure you use strong passwords for your router.
• Once set up, follow the router’s guide to jet start the VPN functionality through the software settings.
• Enable remote management.
• Now, create multiple user accounts for your entire team that requires VPN access.
• Ask each member to download the VPN app on their supported devices.
• Lastly, connect the home PC to the office. For Windows users, head to the control panel, click on Network and Sharing, and then on Create New Connection. Select VPN and type the IP address.
• For macOS users, go to the Apple menu, click on System Preferences, and then on Network Click Add, and select the VPN.
• Lastly, type in your office IP address.

Should I use a free business VPN?

No, you shouldn’t.

Choosing a VPN for business owners, regardless of how big the company is, should be done carefully. If you’re dealing with sensitive information and handling office and client files, using a free VPN won’t be the best of ideas.

Are VPNs safe for business?

Yes, a VPN is a great way to secure your business data and information. Using a VPN across your networks can make them more secure and robust. Businesses can use a VPN on any internet-connected device and make it part of a private network for a secure connection.

To Conclude

Running a business is no easy task, and securing every aspect from data to device is equally important. For this, using a VPN for a startup or large enterprise is essential. It not only encrypts your connection, and data, but secures your devices from cyber-attacks and viruses.

Choosing the best VPN for small business is not easy, which is why we’ve shortlisted only the best. However, if we were to recommend our top choices, it would be Perimeter 81 and NordVPN Teams.